MOBILE, Alabama -- BAE Systems in Mobile is looking to hire more than 1,200 people in the next 16 months, starting with a job fair later this week.

On Thursday, the shipbuilder will be looking for mid-level and professional management personnel as well as electrical and mechanical engineers, naval architects, pipe fitters, pipe welders, structural welders, ship fitters, dock personnel, carpenters, maintenance, crane operators, test and trials and safety technicians.

"It'll really be a one-stop-shop for people that are interested in a job with us," said BAE Systems Human Resource Manager Gia Hawkins. "I think we are a secret in this area. We have people that have been working here for 30 years and we really want to help people build that longevity."

Hawkins said based on the turnout Thursday, the company will determine if it will schedule another job fair later this year.

The job fair will be held from Noon to 7 p.m. on Thursday at the front of BAE System's campus at 660 Dunlap Dr. on Pinto Island.